The Purple Onion

Highway 52
2025-09-18 19:30 - 21:30 UTC | The Purple Onion, 16 E Main St, Saluda, NC, 28773, United States
Highway 52 is an acoustic Blues and Americana group that includes four seasoned, local musicians. Playing Blues and Americana favorites, as well as some more eclectic covers and originals, the band knows how to get a room thumping and singing along. Band members are Bill Loftus on guitar/harmonica/vocals; Mike ‘Country’ Carver, guitar/vocals; Paul McIntire, electric violin; and Lauren Bandy, standup and electric bass.

Lonesome Road Band
2025-09-20 20:00 - 22:00
The Lonesome Road Band regularly travels as a three piece group, featuring banjo, guitar, and bass. In a nutshell, the band plays country and folk, but that wonderfully rustic country that walks you down a dirt road, with a pleasant breeze tickling your face, while the grasshoppers chirp. Founded back in 1995, the band has gone through a few changes in members, but has never lost its heart and soul – thanks in abundance to its founder Larry Keith. The charming yet stark fervency of The Lonesome Road Band’s music instantly takes audiences back to a time where songs told the world of man’s great love and great sorrows. Huddled around a vintage mic, the group would be right at home next to the Soggy Bottom Boys in “O Brother Where Art Thou.”

Local Boys
2025-09-25 19:30 - 21:30
Rooted in nearly two decades of camaraderie, The Local Boys bring bluegrass and Americana to life with warmth and energy. Emerging from Maryland and now based in Charlotte, North Carolina, this seasoned ensemble—anchored by John Aaron’s guitar and vocals, Steven Davidson’s mandolin and harmony, Jake Joines’s dobro, and Jesse Chattin’s upright bass—draws on over 80 years of combined stage experience. Their debut album, Stories, unfolds narratives rich with character, humor, and heart, carried on tight musicianship and soulful storytelling. With performances at MerleFest and other festivals, they blend tradition and innovation in a way that welcomes every listener.

Redbud
2025-09-27 20:00 - 22:00
Redbud honors traditional bluegrass while blending original tunes with stunning harmonies, hauntingly catchy melodies, and rhythms that will have you tapping your feet. This group of young musicians brings a fresh energy to the genre, with Lucas Ward’s steady guitar, Griffin Decker’s melodic mandolin, Addy Quinn’s vibrant fiddle, Dayne Watson’s banjo picking, and Chase Arden’s driving bass. Together, they create a sound that is both timeless and new, captivating audiences with everything from lively fiddle tunes to heartfelt ballads.

Shlomo Franklin
2025-10-02 19:30 - 21:30
Shlomo Franklin blends folk, country, and rock into music that is raw, soulful, and deeply moving. Raised on a farm in New York, his journey from quiet beginnings to the stage infuses every song with honesty, grit, and heart. His tender yet powerful voice carries lyrics that cut straight to the core, weaving stories of resilience, longing, and hope. Franklin’s songwriting reflects both his rural roots and a fearless spirit, creating music that feels personal yet universal. Whether delivering an intimate ballad that lingers like a whispered confession or a driving anthem that fills the room with energy, his performances draw listeners in with authenticity and leave them captivated long after the final note.

Will Willis
2025-10-04 20:00 - 22:00
Will Willis brings a genre-blurring fusion of folk-rock, blues, and funk to the Appalachian music scene. A nomadic upbringing traversed landscapes from California to Montana and the Carolina coast before he rooted himself in Boone, North Carolina. Guided by the craftsmanship he inherited from his father, Willis channels storytelling, heart, and grit into songs that explore addiction, relationships, and the quest for meaning—always with a resilient spark of hope. His latest EP, Digital Movement, streaming since May 2024, offers a fresh musical chapter rich in emotional depth and creative momentum. Whether through collaborative arrangements or solo storytelling, Willis’s music welcomes listeners into a soulful, evolving journey.

Brody Schenk
2025-10-09 19:30 - 21:30
Born in Rochester, NY, and now rooted in East Nashville, Brody Schenk channels the soul of old blues and classic rock through the voice of a wise-beyond-his-years troubadour. A gifted guitarist and storyteller, he blends heartfelt lyrics with dynamic guitar work, honoring traditions of artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Neil Young, and the Grateful Dead. His songs feel both timeless and deeply personal—raw, honest, and brimming with youthful intensity. Whether he’s fingers working the frets or delivering a stirring lyric, Brody’s music draws listeners into a world that’s authentic, richly textured, and impossible to ignore.

Redd and The Paper Flowers
2025-10-11 20:00 - 22:00
Redd and The Paper Flowers craft a sound that is both haunting and uplifting, weaving together threads of Americana, folk, and rock with striking emotional depth. At the heart of the band is Redd, whose soulful vocals and poignant lyrics unfold like pages from a diary, balancing vulnerability with strength. The Paper Flowers bring those stories to life with lush instrumental textures, harmonies that shimmer, and rhythms that drive each song forward. Their music is at once intimate and expansive—songs that linger in the heart while stirring the spirit. Whether it’s a gentle ballad or a powerful anthem, their performances invite listeners into a world of raw honesty and unforgettable beauty.

Amanda Anne Platt
2025-10-16 19:30 - 21:30
There is an empathetic and charming wit ingrained in Platt’s songwriting. She has a knack for accessing a deep well of emotion and applying it to her story-telling, whether she is writing from her own experiences or immersing herself into the melody of emotions in another person’s life. Lyrically driven, Platt’s country roots music often inspires introspection, whether it be about life on the road, heartache or hope.

Lillie Syracuse
2025-10-23 19:30 - 21:30
In a velvet stream of joy, grief, and love, Lillie Syracuse’s voice and music pours deep from the heart of the in-between. Just as her heart was woven from tree, waterfall, birdsong, and red mountain clay, so was her song writing. Lillie’s hope, in song-craft, is to foster shifts towards a deeper connection with nature, community, authenticity, creativity, and magic in the lives of those who hear her music. Described as a sound worker and poet, alongside her talents as a singer and songwriter, Syracuse is a talent truly sculpted by the roots of these mountains.

Fayssoux McLean and Brandon Turner
2025-10-30 19:30 - 21:30
Fayssoux McLean and Brandon Turner create a sound that is both timeless and deeply rooted in Southern tradition. Fayssoux, once hailed by Emmylou Harris as one of country music’s “best singers,” brings a pure, soulful voice that has graced classic recordings and continues to captivate with its warmth and grace. Guitarist Brandon Turner complements her perfectly, adding dazzling musicianship and sensitive accompaniment that elevates every performance. Together they blend folk, country, and bluegrass influences into music that feels as familiar as an old friend while still carrying the spark of discovery. Their songs and harmonies invite listeners into an intimate space where heart and craft meet.

Carrie Morrison, Andrew Thelson, Jeff Lott
2025-11-01 20:00 - 22:00
Carrie Morrison, Andrew Thelson, and Jeff Lott come together to create an unforgettable blend of piano-driven rock, soulful vocals, and dynamic instrumental interplay. Carrie Morrison, a classically trained pianist and singer-songwriter, anchors the trio with heartfelt lyrics and melodies that carry both power and vulnerability. Andrew Thelson adds electric guitar and soaring harmonies, bringing a rich texture and rock edge to their sound, while Jeff Lott provides the steady heartbeat on bass, grounding each song with depth and groove. Together they move seamlessly from high-energy anthems to intimate ballads, crafting performances that are both polished and emotionally charged, leaving audiences fully engaged.

Aaron Burdett
2025-11-02 19:30 - 21:30
Aaron Burdett is an acclaimed Americana/folk singer-songwriter and performer from Western North Carolina. No stranger to hard work, Aaron’s sense of adventure took him across the country working on various types of farms and ranches. While many mainstream country singers pay lip-service to the blue-collar working world, Aaron’s songs come from his life experiences. Aaron Burdett’s lyrics are soul-touching, intelligent, witty, and poetic all at once, while his music style is a seamless blend of Americana, country, blues, bluegrass, and folk. Aaron’s writing is as prolific and genuine as the man. Drawing heavily on both the traditions of Appalachian folk music as well as nationally known songwriters, Aaron’s music gives voice to the small rural areas of the Blue Ridge Mountains while also speaking to the working men and women throughout the country.

Eternally Grateful
2025-11-06 19:30 - 21:30
Eternally Grateful is a dynamic band mainly operating as an acoustic guitar and upright bass duo. Their live shows combine influences from different generations in American music to create a timeless, captivating and distinctive style. Working to quickly become a staple on the Charlotte, NC music scene, they have played over 200 shows since 2023. Complemented by the eclectic mastery of Ben Williams on upright bass, and completed by the prolific songwriting and virtuosic talents of Cooper Pearce on guitar/vocals, Eternally Grateful strives to make a true connection with their audiences and is a must see act for any music lover.

Rudy's Bluegrass Revue
2025-11-08 20:00 - 22:00
Rudy’s Bluegrass Revue delivers a health and happiness show, with upbeat songs and positive energy. Five-time, Four Corner States, banjo champion, Rudy is a singer/songwriter, as well as multi-instrumentalist on banjo, guitar, mandolin, and fiddle. ?Rudy’s music spans a variety of? original compositions, from bluegrass, rhythm & roots, Americana/country, classical, to world chants. The nucleus of the band includes Rudy Cortese and Elizabeth Kronlage on harmony vocals, tenor guitar, cello. The award winning duo presents a traditional and energetic bluegrass mountain experience.

Michael Flynn
2025-11-13 19:30 - 21:30
Michael Flynn is an Americana-adjacent singer/songwriter based in western NC. Though some have likened his style to that of the “Neo-pop” genre. Either way, his music is appealing in its ability to take you on a journey. One moment you will be chuckling along with a quirky turn of phrase and the next closing your eyes to the somber tones flowing from both piano and Flynn’s vocals. There is no denying Flynn’s talent, with songs featured on shows like Grey’s Anatomy and Shameless, and not to mention his numerous awards. Lyrically strong, intimately beautiful, and full of varied song craft, Flynn’s music is playful even when it hurts, bright when it’s bruising, and as catchy as it is clever. In short, his music is like life, a full experience.

Peggy Ratutz and Kelly Jones
2025-11-15 20:00 - 22:00
Local faves Kelly Jones (guitar & vocals), praised as one of the best and most versatile players on the scene and 10 times best in Blues award winner Peggy Ratusz (singer songwriter & percussionist), combine their exceptional talents for an intimate early evening 2-set showcase of their favorite acoustic Blues, Classic Country and Pop Rock covers and originals. Expect to hear a heaping helping of Bonnie Raitt’s early classics as well as scaled down and evocative arrangements from the superb library of the late, great Piedmont guitarist and songwriter, Sean Costello. They call themselves Downtown Duo Delux, and together they’ve been seducing new and faithful fans for nearly two years.

Michael Reno Harrell
2025-11-20 19:30 - 21:30
Michael Reno Harrell is an award winning songwriter, as well as a veteran storyteller and entertainer, and he’s from the South. One could compare Michael’s performances to his granddaddy’s pocket knife: well worn and familiar feeling, but razor sharp, and with a point. His original songs and stories have been described as “Appalachian grit and wit” but, as his writing shows, Michael’s awareness is much broader than the bounds of his boyhood home or even the Southern Experience. Between the approachable, feel-good nature of his music, and vivid story-telling that leaves you smiling, Michael creates an auditory experience that has to be witnessed in person.

Songs of the Folk
2025-11-22 20:00 - 22:00
A.T. and Lauren Cason channel the spirit of American folk and blues with storytelling that’s both timeless and deeply personal. Their sound blends Simon & Garfunkel–style harmonies with early Dylan lyricism, Leonard Cohen’s introspection, and the authentic fingerstyle blues of North Carolina’s Piedmont tradition. Well-crafted lyrics and intricate instrumentation come together to create songs that feel like chapters in a book—vivid, unfolding narratives you’re eager to hear next. Their debut full-length album, Sun-Scorched Land, brings band arrangements to songs they’ve performed live for years, played by real musicians and recorded with heartfelt authenticity. Together, they craft music that resonates long after the last note fades.

Reedy River String Band
2025-11-29 20:00 - 22:00
Reedy River String Band has taken the Southeast of the United States by storm the past few years with their fresh take on Appalachian roots music. Reedy River’s sound is modern bluegrass with foot stompin’ elements of jam and rock n’ roll inspired by the various touring and recording experiences of its members. In any given show, Multi-instrumentalist Sterling Waite interchanges mandolin, fiddle, banjo, and harmonica to bring a range of textures to the band’s live performances. With Rush Morgan on guitar and Mark Dye on upright bass, all three of the members are songwriters and lead singers, lending a depth and variety of original material beyond the band’s relatively short time together.

Jack Lawrence w/ Adam Lawrence & Steven Davidson
2025-11-30 19:00 - 21:00
Jack Lawrence, a master of flatpicking guitar, has been a cornerstone of bluegrass since the 1970s. Best known as Doc Watson’s longtime musical partner, Lawrence blends tradition with a distinctive style shaped by influences like Clarence White and Django Reinhardt. From his early days with the Bluegrass Alliance to acclaimed solo albums and collaborations with legends such as Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, and the Del McCoury Band, Jack carries forward the heart of Appalachian roots music with grace, soul, and unmatched technical skill.

Time Sawyer
2025-12-04 19:30 - 21:30
Time Sawyer’s name reflects the pull between the past and the future. The character Tom Sawyer evokes the rural background and love of home that the band shares. Time is a muse for songwriting; it’s the thread that runs through life, bringing new experiences and giving us a sense of urgency, while still connecting us with our past. A folk-rock band whose songs call out the attitudes and behaviors that lead to our divisions – the way that we show understanding to our friends and family, without thinking about how folks outside our social circle are experiencing their own problems, and are, at heart, just like us.

Swamp Rabbit Bluegrass
2025-12-06 20:00 - 22:00
Homegrown grassers putting out a fresh cut sound!The Swamp Rabbit Bluegrass Band is a brand new venture that is bursting onto the scene with their fresh cut sounds of “homegrown grass.” This four-piece ensemble is pushing the limits of acoustic music while encompassing the foot stomping drive of authentic bluegrass in tandem with invigorating original music. Based in the Upstate of South Carolina, the ultimate desire of the Swamp Rabbits is to bring the community together while providing a musical atmosphere that is ripe for good times. This cast contains musical veterans that have each shined on major stages such as Albino Skunk Fest, the Houston Rodeo, Camp Springs, Fall for Greenville, and other notable billings. Now joining forces, they are eager to broadcast their newfangled creations to the local scene and beyond. As they like to say at SRB, let’s get weird!

Seth Walker
2025-12-11 19:30 - 21:30
Over the past 15 years, Seth Walker has become recognized as one of the most revered modern roots artists in the United States; a three dimensional talent comprised by a gift for combining melody and lyric alongside a rich, Gospel-drenched, Southern-inflected voice with a true blue knack for getting around on the guitar. Having lived all along the East Coast, he’s used those experiences imparted by many heritages wisely, soaking up the sounds and absorbing the musical lineage of these varied places. With a bluesman’s respect for roots and tradition, coupled with an appreciation for—and successful melding of—contemporary songwriting, Seth sublimely incorporates a range of styles with warmth and grace.

Florencia and The Feeling
2025-12-13 20:00 - 22:00
Florencia & The Feeling are a pop-funk fusion quintet out of Johnson City, Tennessee, electrifying audiences with spirited grooves, lush harmonies, and joyful energy. Since forming in April 2021, the band—led by Florencia Rusinol on vocals, joined by Andrew Kramer (guitar), Isaac Ratliff (keys), Nick Castro (bass), and Austin Herron (drums)—has been lighting up stages across the eastern U.S. with a sound that blends funk, jazz, Latin flair, Nu Soul, pop, indie rock, and roots. Their debut album Birthday (2023) was independently released and praised as “pure, unadulterated fun,” and they’ve since won the 2024 MerleFest Band Competition and the 2025 FloydFest On-The-Rise contest. With sweeping four-part harmonies, heartfelt songwriting, and danceable rhythms, they deliver music that feels like celebration.

Cowboy Judy Xmas Extravaganza
2025-12-14 19:00 - 21:00
A return performance quickly becoming a tradition at the Purple Onion, this energetic group of ladies is an event you don’t want to miss. Cowboy Judy always brings the show to, well, every show they perform. Couple their infectious stage presence, melodic songs, and penchant for grooving tunes you can’t sit still to? Exhilarating. Throw in some holiday cheer and festive motifs? Pure Magic.
Female fronted super group, Cowboy Judy (formally Sweet Claudette,) is the bringing together of worlds, in the best of ways. Singing an upbeat hybrid of country and motown, you would be hard pressed to find another group as gifted with their harmonies and charisma as you have here.

The Wilder Flower
2025-12-18 19:30 - 21:30
The Wilder Flower is an Upstate SC and Western NC based trio, featuring Danielle Yother on guitar, Madeline Dierauf on fiddle, and Molly Johnson on banjo. Playing throughout the Carolinas, the group has traveled and toured as far as Ohio, Alabama, and Georgia. Their collaboration flexes between folk, Americana, bluegrass, and Old-time tunes. Vocally, the trio thrives on three-part harmonies and originals.

Autumnwüd Holiday Special
2025-12-20 20:00 - 22:00
The Autumnwüd Holiday Special arrives at The Purple Onion in Saluda, bringing Eric Congdon & Friends together for an evening of festive acoustic magic. Showing true to the Blues and Americana roots of the region, Eric Congdon continues to establish his reputation as one of the area’s most engaging artists. A multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, collaborator, producer, and virtuoso guitarist, he brings remarkable talent to every performance. Recently voted #1 Guitarist in Mountain XPress, his musicianship consistently captivates audiences no matter what he’s playing.
This special holiday concert features the Autumnwüd trio—Eric Congdon, Hope Griffin, and Paul McIntire—blending guitar, mandolin, violin, and rich harmonies into a warm December soundtrack. Guests can expect crowd favorites and seasonal classics in an intimate setting perfect for celebrating the season.

Tina and Her Pony
2025-12-27 20:00 - 22:00
Indie, Appalachian-folk band, Tina & Her Pony, was formed in 2009 in Asheville, North Carolina by Tina Collins. Internationally known for their tight, sweet, smooth harmonies and simple, exposed, crafted instrumentation on cello, tenor ukulele & guitar, Tina and Her Pony has a fresh, palatable, sound that is bewitching. With warm smiles and honest simplicity, Tina & Her Pony bring a unique sound to the American folk tradition, featuring original songs that echo the sound of Appalachia, while creating new waves with radical, queer lyrics, uncommon instrumentation and vocals tighter than your mamas’ brazier.

Nikki Talley
2026-01-08 20:00 - 22:00
Talley is an award winning vocalist & songwriter. Nikki’s powerful and beautiful voice, often accompanied by Jason’s – husband- lush guitar tones, create a complete rustic sound. Nikki plays guitar as well as mountain clawhammer banjo while Jason accompanies her on guitar and sings harmony. At its core, Nikki Talley’s sound is wonderfully rural and heartfelt; Country belonging to Nashville and the likes of Johnny Cash. Yet, Talley’s style goes beyond just traditional Country. Bridging the sounds of Country and Americana Root music, she flows flawlessly between styles while bringing raw energy to her shows. Her powerful vocals and heart wrenching lyrics twist around you and bring you home at the same time.
